Porthcawl Girl Guides are closing in on ambitious fundraising target

Girl Guides in Porthcawl are in the middle of an ambitious fundraising campaign to refurbish their main Guide Hall in Soiuth Road, where they have been based since 1928.

However, total refurbishment costs are a daunting total of £256,000 – although the Guides can move back into the building before that target is hit.

The land on which Porthcawl Guide Hall sits was gifted to Girlguiding around 1928 by Mrs Blundell of Nottage Court. It has been an integral part of Porthcawl for the last 90 years, during which time the guides has flourished.

They are a registered charity (no 515839) and have three Rainbow units (age five to seven), four Brownie units (seven to 10), and three Guide units (10 to 14).

There is also a senior section for girls aged 14 to 24.

In total, around 250 are regulars at Girl Guide activities.

Their next fundraising event is on March 23 at the Hi-Tide Inn, featuring two tribute acts – to Ed Sheeran and to Adele.

Guide Leader Donna Jacka said: “We would love to use the Guide Hall much more, especially for weekend sleepovers and other events, but it is now very tired and in need of considerable refurbishment.

“This work includes: adding a disabled toilet and wet room; a new kitchen; replacing the roof; replacement doors; fitting out the attic space for storage; as well as various other jobs to renovate and modernise the building. The total cost of the renovation is £256,000.

“We are hoping that with the support of Porthcawl townspeople and local businesses we can save the Guide Hall for at least the next 90 years. This will help ensure that future generations of girls in Porthcawl will have a safe place to build fond memories and lasting friendships.

“To date we have received substantial donations from Porthcawl Co-op, Rockwool PLC, Porthcawl Town Council and the Christmas Swim committee.

“Many more have assisted and all the money raised so far has been spent on necessary repairs. To finish the building totally will take £30,000, but £20,000 would be sufficient for the hall to be opened.”

Tickets for the next fundraising evening, in the Hi-Tide Inn, Mackworth Road, on Saturday, March 23, are available from the Hi-Tide, or from Donna Jacka on 07842 321380.